Oldham Athletic sack Montano

Columbian winger Cristian Montano was arrested earlier this month after he was alleged to have tried to get booked in return for cash as part of a betting scam in an October League One clash at Wolves. Montano has also been charged with rape.

The Columbian winger was arrested earlier this month after he was alleged to have tried to get booked in return for cash as part of a betting scam in an October League One clash at Wolves.

He has since been bailed.

Latics suspended the 22-year-old without pay following the accusations.

And at a Boundary Park press conference this morning director Barry Owen revealed they have now sacked Montano for gross misconduct following a club probe.

Mr Owen said: "It's been a very difficult time. We have had to consider the position of the club and the fans. The investigation itself had to be conducted and we believe it is the right decision for the club."

Oldham say the move was made on disciplinary grounds irrespective of any legal proceedings against the player.

A statement read: "After a thorough investigation carried out by Oldham Athletic Football Cub relating to the conduct of Cristian Montano and following lengthy discussions with our team of legal advisers at CM solicitors, a decision has been made by the club's board to dismiss the player forthwith.

"Notwithstanding and without prejudice to the ongoing criminal investigation, it is our view that the player's conduct, in not only bringing the name of Oldham Athletic but also the football authorities into disrepute, amounts to very serious and therefore constitutes gross misconduct.

"Oldham Athletic take matters such as this extremely seriously and believe it was essential to act as swiftly as possible in conjunction with our legal advisers to investigate and deal with this matter decisively once they became aware of the allegations and irrespective of any other investigations and proceedings by other agencies.

"The club will not be making any further statements, or taking further questions after this morning."

The M.E.N. can also reveal that Montano has been charged with rape.

He is one of three men accused of an attack on a woman in London.

Montano, of Caspian Road, Blackley, Andres Hurtado, 23, of Pemberton Gardens, Upper Holloway; and Camilo Valencia, 22, of Woolridge Way, Hackney pleaded not guilty to the allegations in London last week.